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Reds consider Cooper appeal

The Reds are considering an appeal against Quade Cooper's one-match ban so he can face the Sharks in a key Super 15 clash on Saturday.

Last Updated: 18/07/12 10:04am

The Reds are considering an appeal against Quade Cooper's one-match ban so he can face the Sharks in a key Super 15 clash on Saturday.

Cooper was banned for a week on Monday after judicial officer Paul Tully found him guilty of a high tackle on Waratahs star Berrick Barnes following a marathon hearing.

The Reds have been talking up their ability to win without their enigmatic playmaker ever since the decision was handed down, indicating they would not appeal the decision.

However, a statement released on Wednesday confirmed the Queensland Rugby Union are 'seriously considering' fighting the ruling.

"We are obviously particularly sensitive to not disrupting the Reds team dynamics and preparation in launching an appeal at this late stage," said QRU Chairman Rod McCall.

"However, by not receiving the formal judgement until 8pm Tuesday after the decision was handed down on Monday evening, time is getting away from us in what was already a short preparation.

Treated harshly

"Under the current SANZAR protocols if we were to launch an appeal we would lose at least a further day of preparation with (coach) Ewen (McKenzie) and Quade who would both be required to fly to Sydney for another hearing.

"However we are cognisant of the need to support our player if we feel he has been treated harshly and in our opinion we still strongly believe the tackle did not warrant suspension.

"After taking the advice of legal representatives, the QRU first intends to discuss the matter further with SANZAR before making a decision whether to launch an appeal within the allowed 48-hour period."